The MORI survey contains other surprising findings. This includes the fact that over a quarter (29%) of senior EEF members support joining in principle, but are opposed to setting a timetable. However, nearly three quarters (74%) said they support the Euro if all of their economic concerns were answered. Only 22% claimed that they would still oppose entry in this case.

The latest survey sits alongside a previous member survey conducted in 1999. At that time, 59% of respondents claimed that any significant strengthening in the Euro against the pound would have made them more willing to join. Some 56% of them stated that measures to reduce the legislative powers of the European Commission also have encouraged them. Additionally, a third (32%) of companies would have been positively influenced by strong government Euro support.

According to EEF Director-General, Martin Temple, "Whilst the survey shows that Business is committed to the European Union as a key part of our future growth, there is strong opposition to the level of European Commission involvement in other areas such as social policy and taxation. It is clear that opinions on the Euro's introduction could swing either way over the next few years depending on whether these concerns are addressed by the UK Government."

MORI conducted the research through 500 telephone interviews with Chief Executives, Managing Directors and Board members of EEF companies between the 3rd and 19th January 2001.